The duke had sent a gentleman to Olivia’s house. But he was not admitted. Cesario Viola in
disguise), the duke’s favourite page, knew the secret story of the duke’s love for Olivia. So the
duke sent Cesario to unfold to Olivia the depth of his love.
When Viola tried to unfold the duke’s love for Olivia, Olivia asked her if she was playing a role.
Avoiding a direct reply, Viola put forward Orsino’s case. Olivia, on hearing Viola’s plea, replied that in her present state of mind she could not love the duke. But she praised the duke by calling him ‘virtuous’, ‘noble’, ‘of high estate’, “fresh and spotless youth’.
